SJSH offers a clear alternative to the publicly funded education system. We provide both larger-ratio and smaller-ratio classes to match each student’s needs. Our smaller-ratio classes deliver targeted support to build skills and address learning difficulties, with the long-term goal of integrating students into—and ensuring success in—larger-ratio classes as they’re ready. Core classes at SJSH will not exceed 19 students.
Junior and Senior Kindergarten
Kindergarten at SJSH is full-day, every day, for 4- and 5-year-olds who are ready to learn in a teacher-directed academic environment, with French introduced at the JK level.
Best beginnings start at SJSH. A strong foundation in basic academic skills is essential for your child’s future success. Equally important is developing a positive attitude toward learning, good work habits, and strong self-esteem from an early age.
The SJSH Advantage in Kindergarten
SJSH provides a teacher-directed, structured academic program. Phonics, reading, and correct spelling are emphasized. Penmanship is taught from the beginning and reinforced through note-making, journaling, and homework. Memory skills are developed and applied to number facts, listening skills, and following instructions. Daily routines, organizational skills, early development of a strong work ethic, and the nurturing of a positive self-image are integral to the learning process.
Primary Grades 1–2
Becoming part of the Pride at SJSH begins here. These are crucial years when children use their emerging reading, spelling, and arithmetic skills to acquire knowledge and communicate effectively. Written expression becomes the most important skill at this stage. If not developed properly, future academic success may be at risk.
- In Kindergarten to Grade 2, students learn to read.
- In Grades 3 and 4, students begin to read to learn.
The SJSH Advantage
Students benefit from a strong emphasis on reading, spelling, and written expression, including sentence structure, paragraphing, grammar, capitalization, punctuation, cohesion, and coherence. Skills such as note-making, research, and study habits are introduced early. This solid foundation prepares students to achieve personal bests in later grades.
Junior Grades 3–5
Growing strong and confident. These grades are equally critical. Students must apply their reading, spelling, writing, and arithmetic skills not only to acquire knowledge but also to communicate effectively. Writing skills become the cornerstone of learning; without strong writing, future academic achievement may be compromised.
- In lower grades, students learn to read.
- In the junior grades, students not only read to learn but also write to communicate.
The SJSH Advantage
Students are taught in a teacher-directed, structured program. Phonics is applied to oral reading and spelling, penmanship is reinforced through note-making, journaling, and homework, and memory is strengthened through number facts, listening, and following directions. Daily routines, organization, work ethic, and self-confidence are developed consistently.
Intermediate Grades 6–8
At this stage, students must demonstrate mastery of basic skills, continue developing strong writing abilities, and begin to think independently. A strong work ethic, focus, and daily commitment to achievement are essential. Students must also develop the beginnings of an unshakable belief in their ability to succeed—yet very few in the public system leave Grade 8 with these traits fully formed.
The SJSH Advantage
Small classes allow teachers to provide personalized instruction, identify areas needing review, and offer intensive support. Students receive daily feedback, guidance, and preparation for exams. By Grade 8, SJSH students are significantly ahead of their peers in readiness for secondary education.
With competition for university entrance at an all-time high, this advantage is critical.
High School Grades 9–12
SJSH is inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and grants Ontario Creits towards graduation and their full Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC).
In September 2012, SJSH became the first high school in Canada to adopt a university-style Tri-Semester calendar.
Tri-Semester Advantages for SJSH Students
- Grades 9 and 10: Academic foundation plus a math and English bridge course to reenforce these key skills. SJSH high school students can 9 full credits annually.
- Grades 11 and 12: Earn up to 10 credits every 10 months.
- Students are better prepared for post-secondary program pace, workload, routines, and deadlines.
- Graduates can begin university in September, January, or May, providing entry advantages other high school students do not have.
The SJSH Advantage
Students benefit from intensive personal instruction, daily feedback, and strong mentoring from highly dedicated teachers. Teachers act not only as educators but also as advisors and mentors, ensuring students stay motivated and achieve at their highest level.
Achieving goals, one day at a time, for a lifetime. SJSH students don’t merely compete for post-secondary placement—they earn their place at the post-secondary institution of their choice.